What is the top of the line Ford Taurus?
Ford's top-end Taurus is the Taurus SHO (Super High Output), a high-performance flagship featuring a turbocharged EcoBoost V6, sport-tuned hardware, and distinctive styling. It represents the apex of the Taurus lineup during its production run.
The Taurus lineup evolved from base SE to mid-level SEL and Limited trims, with the SHO serving as the performance flagship. Ford discontinued the Taurus in North America after the 2019 model year, ending the lineage of the modern Taurus—though the SHO remains a notable chapter in Ford's performance sedan history.
Trims that defined the Taurus lineup
Below is a quick look at the main trims that comprised the modern Taurus lineup, before explaining what made SHO the standout.
- SE — the entry-level, focused on value and essential features
- SEL — mid-level trim with more equipment and upgraded interior options
- Limited — premium trim with upgraded materials and technology
- SHO — the performance flagship with enhanced power, chassis tuning, and exclusive styling
In its later years, the Taurus offered a performance-first SHO variant as the top-shelf model, and standard and optional tech evolved over the years. The rest of the lineup provided a comfortable, spacious full-size sedan experience.
SHO: the performance flagship
Before detailing the features, here are the key points that defined the Taurus SHO as the lineup’s apex.
- Powertrain: a turbocharged 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 delivering around 365 horsepower and substantial torque
- Drivetrain: typically equipped with all-wheel drive for improved traction
- Handling and braking: sport-tuned suspension, performance-caliber brakes, and chassis upgrades
- Interior and technology: unique styling cues, upgraded seats and materials, and advanced connectivity options for its era
The SHO stood out for offering performance credentials in a full-size sedan—combining practicality with a higher level of dynamic capability. Ford marketed it as the sportier alternative within the Taurus family, and it remained the line’s pinnacle until the model’s U.S. departure.
Powertrain details and performance notes
The 3.5L EcoBoost V6 under the hood gave the SHO more power than the other Taurus trims, along with a refined exhaust note and responsive acceleration. While exact figures shifted with model-year updates, the engine consistently placed the SHO at the top of the Taurus performance ladder.
Design, technology, and interior
In addition to power, the SHO featured sportier exterior cues, exclusive badging, and interior upgrades such as supportive seats and upgraded trim. Tech offerings included Ford's modern infotainment and driver-assist features appropriate to the era.
Summary
The top-of-the-line Ford Taurus is the Taurus SHO, Ford’s performance-focused flagship within the Taurus family. It combined a turbocharged EcoBoost engine with all-wheel drive and sport-oriented handling, delivering a blend of practicality and performance that set it apart from the more everyday trims. Production of the Taurus wound down after the 2019 model year in North America, closing the book on the modern Taurus lineup, with the SHO remembered for its corners turned and power delivered.
How to tell if a Taurus is a sho?
The SHO also got unique seats, side cladding, dual exhaust, as well as a unique rear bumper. 1992 models can be visually identified by not containing a rear trunklid spoiler, having downturned exhaust tips, and only a driver's side airbag (later models have both driver's and passenger airbags).
What is the difference between Ford Taurus SEL and Limited?
The main differences between the Ford Taurus SEL and Limited trims are that the Limited includes more standard luxury and convenience features for a higher price, such as leather upholstery, a power liftgate, and advanced driver-assist technologies. The SEL is a step up from the base model, offering features like heated seats and dual-zone climate control, while the Limited adds a significant number of premium upgrades on top of that.
Ford Taurus SEL
- Standard Features: The SEL trim includes features like power-adjustable front seats, heated front seats, and dual-zone automatic climate control. It also comes with a leather-wrapped steering wheel and a reverse sensing system.
- Engine: Typically shares the same engine options as the Limited, often a 3.5LV63.5 cap L cap V 63.5𝐿𝑉6, and can be equipped with all-wheel drive.
Ford Taurus Limited
- Standard Features: Includes all SEL features and adds luxury items like perforated leather-trimmed seats, a power liftgate, and a household-style power outlet. It also comes standard with ambient lighting and features like a reverse sensing system and rear view camera.
- Optional/Advanced Features: Can be optioned with the Driver Assist package, which includes adaptive cruise control, automated parallel parking, and lane departure warning and intervention.
- Price: The Limited trim is significantly more expensive than the SEL due to the higher level of standard equipment.
Which trim should you choose?
- Choose the SEL if you want a balance of upgraded features over the base model without the premium price tag of the Limited.
- Choose the Limited if you desire more luxury, comfort, and convenience features as standard and are willing to pay more for them.
What is the highest trim of the Ford Taurus?
The range-topping Taurus SHO is the only standout in the lineup, with a sport-tuned suspension and powerful engine that overcomes the Taurus' otherwise wallowy, sluggish driving experience.
What is the best Ford Taurus to buy?
In reliability terms, Taurus models with the least complaints recorded by CarComplaints.com cover the final five model years from 2014 through 2019. Those end-of-run examples are pretty boring cars, but if cheap and reliable transportation is paramount, then one of those model years may be a decent option.
